1978 Ford Mustang vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,786 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 281 kg more than 1978 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Mustang. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Mustang | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mustang | ML |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2786 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2860 mm |
